DPE Model Code of Conduct released

The Designated Pilot Examiners Model Code of Conduct (DPEMCC) has been released by the Aviators Code Initiative.

Developed by a team of aviation professionals, and drawing upon decades of research and experience, the code offers recommendations to advance professionalism and safety in the conduct of practical tests, according to officials.

“Designated Pilot Examiners are the front line for aviation safety,” said Sean Elliot, industry chair DPE Reform Work Group, and vice president of advocacy and safety for the Experimental Aircraft Association. “Professionalism and ethical practice are a key part of the effectiveness of this community. This Code of Conduct hits all the right indicators of a true professional. The creators should feel proud that such a tool now exists within aviation.”

“Consistency and standardization are critical items in order to keep training and checking activities at the highest professional level,” added W. Ashley Smith, president of Jet Logistics and the Domestic Operations Committee liaison for the National Business Aviation Association. “It is my sincere hope that DPEs from coast-to-coast will not only read this Code of Conduct but take the time to put these initiatives into daily practice so as to give all pilot candidates the best possible experience.”

Most pilots look to DPEs as experts who exemplify the highest standards of fairness, professionalism, and representation of the FAA administrator, according to officials. The manner in which DPEs undertake their responsibilities, and the examples they set, impact the safety culture of aviation, they noted, adding the Code of Conduct will help DPEs serve as role models for the entire aviation community.

The Code of Conduct:

• Promotes DPE professionalism, safety, and DPE contributions to the aviation community and society at large,
• Encourages the development and adoption of ethical behavior, personal responsibility, and good judgment,
• Supports improved communications between DPEs, examinees, regulators, instructors, and others in the aviation industry, and
• Promotes recognition of the DPE as a highly respected professional.

The Code of Conduct received extensive industry review, including input from a number of highly respected examiners, and presents a vision of flight examination excellence in its seven sections:

1. General Responsibilities of DPEs;
2. Flight Test Safety;
3. DPE Training and Proficiency;
4. Security;
5. Environmental Issues;
6. Use of Technology; and
7. DPE Professionalism and Safety Culture.

The Code of Conduct is a living document and will be periodically updated to reflect changes in standards, practice, and the aviation environment, officials added.

The Designated Pilot Examiners Model Code of Conduct is the latest in a family of similar codes, including the Aviators Model Code of Conduct, Aviation Maintenance Technicians Model Code of Conduct, Flight Instructors Model Code of Conduct, the Glider Aviators Model Code of Conduct, the Helicopter Pilots Model Code of Conduct, the Light Sport Aviators Model Code of Conduct, the Seaplane Pilots Model Code of Conduct, the Student Pilots Model Code of Conduct, and the UAS Pilots Code.

Each is available free of charge, along with supporting materials, at SecureAv.com.